Let’s talk about real weight loss. Set a realistic and achievable goal. What I’m talking about is losing weight in a way and at a rate that’s sustainable. Yes, you can go on one of those miracle liquid diets for 48 hours and lose a few pounds. But it isn’t something you’d want to (or should) be sticking with for the long run. Plus if you’re like me, chances are that as soon as you go back to eating normally you’ll get the weight right back.
Instead I’d like to make a case for slow and steady weight loss. You didn’t put those 30 extra pounds on overnight. Don’t expect to take them off in a matter of weeks. Instead, aim to lose half a pound to a pound per week. Believe me, it’ll still be a challenge most weeks.
Set a goal of 5-10% of your weight. It will make the end game much more achievable. Studies show that big health benefits come along with losing 10% of your body weight.
The key to slow and steady weight loss is lifestyle changes. The changes you make to your lifestyle today should become habits that will stick with you forever:
- Drink more water, cut out high calorie drinks like soda and fruit juices.
- Cut back on sugar and refined carbs as much as possible.
- Stick with low sugar fruits, lots of non-startch veggies and protein
- Add in a few healthy fats. Yes, they are high in calories, but they’ll also keep you full longer.
Get up and move. Remember you can move in 15 minute spurts to meet your daily goals.
- Make it a habit to go fo a 30 minute walk after dinner in the evening.
- Start a pilates/yoga class
- Make an effort to move around more all throught your day.
- Get up and walk around while you’re talking on the phone or on a conference call.
- Go play with the kids in the yard or go for a bike ride.
Small lifestyle changes will start to add up and you’ll see some slow and steady weight loss. And there’s another important reason why you want to keep it real and not try to do too much too fast. The end goal is to keep the weight off. And that will be easier with if you do it slowly by changing the way you eat, the way you move and your whole outlook on life. Set yourself up for success by setting small weight loss goals and working toward them.
Yes it takes some patience, but it will be well worth it in the end. Because the end goal is a healthier, more active version of you. Someone that can run around with the kids/grandkids at the park. Someone that’s setting a great example for her loved ones. And yes, someone that fits in that pretty outfit.
#heyiwanttotrythat
